The summer season is quickly approaching and that means it’s time for outdoor barbecues, neighborhood block parties, overnight camping trips and swimming in nearby lakes. Is there anyone who doesn’t love outdoor summer activities? While most people love summer, there are a couple of things that can ruin your summer fun in an instant. Nothing ruins an outdoor barbecue more quickly than a scourge of mosquitoes. Well, maybe one thing does – and that’s finding a tick on the back of your neck. If you are looking for natural, non-toxic ways to deter ticks and mosquitoes this summer you have a few different options.
All Natural Outdoor Pest Control Spray
Most all natural spray repellents are made for putting on your skin. However, there are now all natural tick and mosquito control spray repellents that you can spray on your lawn and on shrubs that will control nuisance pests. In fact, all natural tick and mosquito control spray can be applied to entire properties which can make it a very effective deterrent – especially if it’s reapplied regularly.
Citronella Candles and Tiki Torches
Citronella is another natural and effective way to repel mosquitoes. Citronella is an essential oil that can be used to make candles or it can also be burned. Citronella tiki torches are an effective and fun way to get mosquitoes to leave you alone outside.
Homemade Insect Repellent
You can’t get too much more natural than making your own bug spray. Mix the following ingredients and put into a spray bottle for a homemade insect repellent: 30 drops citronella essential oil, 30 drops geranium essential oil, 20 drops eucalyptus or lemon essential oil, 20 drops lavender essential oil, 10 drops rosemary essential oil, 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, 1/2 cup witch hazel and 1/2 cup water.
Natural Tick Repellent
There are two types of essential oils that are known to repel ticks: essential oil from the leaves and stems of wild tomato plants and essential oil from garlic plants.